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State Rep. John Ward, DFL-Brainerd, was elected by his fellow legislators to serve as an assistant majority leader in the new DFL majority.

While the state faces a number of challenges, starting with a $1.1 billion budget deficit, Ward is ready to get to work and help the new DFL majority govern effectively.

“I’m honored and humbled by the confidence my colleagues have shown in me, and I’m ready to roll up my sleeves, work together and get the job done,” Ward said in a news release.

“We have to balance our budget honestly and responsibly once and for all, with no more gimmicks, while ensuring that the budget funds our priorities and positions our state for long-term prosperity,” he said.

Ward was also selected to serve as the vice chair of the House Capital Investment Committee and as a member on the Jobs and Economic Development Policy and Finance, Legacy, Public Safety Finance and Policy, and Rules and Legislative Administration committees.

“I’m very pleased to be serving on these committees and working closely on the issues that are important to our area,” Ward said. “We need a robust bonding bill to both get construction folks back on the job and address our crumbling infrastructure. Good roads, bridges, wastewater infrastructure, college facilities and the like will help our communities and businesses over the long haul.

“As our economy continues to slowly recover from the Great Recession, the Jobs and Economic Development Committee must continue to work to keep our economy moving in the right direction. I look forward to also serving on the Legacy and Public Safety committees to make sure the taxpayer dollars from the Legacy Amendment are spent wisely, and that our beautiful Minnesota communities remain safe,” he said.

The legislative session is scheduled to begin Jan. 8, 2013.

Ward will be District 10A state representative. That district includes Nisswa, Pequot Lakes, Jenkins, Breezy Point and Gail Lake, Jenkins, Ideal, Pelican, Mission, Center and Lake Edward townships, Brainerd, Baxter and Unorganized Territory.

“There’s a lot to be done, but if we work hard and work together, we can make Minnesota an even better state,” Ward said. “We’re ready to get to work.”

I've worked at the Brainerd Dispatch with various duties since Dec. 7, 1983. Starting off as an Ad Designer and currently Director of Audience Development. The Dispatch has been an interesting and challenging place to work. I'm fortunate to have made many friends, both co-workers and customers.